CV
Bio
​Statement

Heffler’s flourishing art practice is informed by a passion for maps which began as a young girl navigating the subways of NYC. Always viewing the world with wonder, she created an internal dialogue of her thoughts and feelings which made their way to an artistic voice. She is inspired by cartography as well as digital imagery from NASA, topography, and a deep concern for the interconnectedness of the world in terms of human values and experiences. Often, using a thick application of acrylic paint she covers her canvases with gestural brushwork creating richly layered surfaces that conceal and reveal the underlying  history of  paint application. The urge to morph some of her canvases into sculptural forms has a connection to pushing the boundaries of what is considered painting.   Many of her works focus on the shifting boundaries of land and land use.  In her words, "My sculptures are about confronting the unsettling engagement of human alterations to land and earth. I am inspired by science and ecological systems that represents an interconnectedness in the world we share."

Shelley Heffler was born and raised in the Bronx. She attended the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York where she studied interior design, followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in Art. She graduated from Cal State Northridge with a Master’s degree in fine art followed by a teaching credential. She traveled extensively throughout Europe and Asia photographing the lives of fascinating people and the rich cultural landscape they live in. On returning from her travels, she settled in Los Angeles where she taught ceramics and fine art for L.A. Unified for over 25 years. Additionally, she was an adjunct professor at Otis College of Art and Design, a Nationally Board Certified Professional Educator, and a mentor teacher. Her exhibition history includes the Los Angeles County Museum of Art rental gallery, the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery and group shows throughout the United States. Her work has been reviewed in the British magazine Hedge, Los Angeles Times, LA Independent, Daily News, San Diego Tribune and San Diego Art Review. She was nominated for the Awards for the Visual arts, and received a Fellowship from Funds for Teachers. Her paintings and photographs are in the collections of many collectors across the United States.  She has recently been identified as "One to Watch" on Saatchi On Line, and featured in “Art Pins”. Now retired from teaching, she is solely dedicated to her art practice in her studio located at the Perez Art and Design Plaza in Cathedral City, California.